Trauma Therapy in Toronto and Across Ontario
Go at a pace that feels safe. Trauma-informed therapy with registered Ontario clinicians, by secure video across Ontario.
Free 15-minute call · No pressure
Trauma therapy that starts with safety, not pressure
Trauma is not only what happened to you. It is also what your mind and body learned in order to get through it. That can look like being on guard all the time, going numb when things get close, or feeling like the past is happening again when something small sets it off.
Trauma can come from a single event, such as an accident, assault or sudden loss, or from things that went on for years, such as childhood neglect, emotional abuse, medical trauma or an unsafe relationship. You do not need a diagnosis to reach out. If something from your past keeps showing up in your sleep, your relationships or your body, that is reason enough.
What are the signs of trauma?
- Intrusive memories: flashbacks or images that appear without warning
- Sleep problems: nightmares, restless or broken sleep
- Feeling on guard: easily startled, always scanning for danger
- Avoidance: steering clear of people, places or reminders
- Numbness: feeling disconnected from yourself or others
- Shame and self-blame: believing it was your fault
- Big reactions: anger, tears or panic that seem out of proportion
- Body symptoms: tension, headaches, stomach trouble
- Trust and closeness: difficulty feeling safe with other people
Having some of these does not mean you have PTSD. A therapist can help you understand what is going on and what would help.
How does trauma therapy work online?
We do not rush into the hardest memories. Most trauma work moves through three stages, and you set the pace at each one.
What types of trauma therapy do we offer?
Which approach we use depends on you, your history and your clinician. We often combine them.
Trauma and cultural identity
Trauma does not happen in a vacuum. Immigration, racism, family expectations and growing up between cultures can shape how trauma is carried and how safe it feels to talk about it. Our team offers support for South Asian women, Brown women and multiracial and mixed people. Trauma and anxiety often overlap, so you may also find our anxiety therapy page helpful.
Helpful reading
How do I get started with therapy?
Three simple steps. You set the pace.
Book a free 15-minute consult
Tell us what is going on and what you hope will change. We talk about fit, availability and fees. No pressure.
Meet your clinician
Your first session is by secure video. We listen, get clear on your goals and agree on a plan that suits you.
Build momentum
How often we meet is something we decide together. We check in on progress and adjust as you go.
Who will I work with?
Registered clinicians who believe real change starts with genuine connection.
Megan Sigmundson
BA, BEd, MA, RP · Registered Psychotherapist
Nine years in practice. Megan supports students, young adults, women, men and parents with anxiety, depression, trauma and life transitions, and is a Certified EFFT Caregiver Workshop Facilitator. Registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario.
Christina Abounassar
Founder · MSW, RSW · Registered Social Worker
Over 10 years in practice. Christina works with driven professionals, couples and individuals who are ready to do deeper work, in a space where you can feel heard without judgment. Registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trauma Therapy
Do I have to talk about everything that happened?
No. You decide what to share and when. Early sessions focus on safety and skills, and some approaches, including EMDR, do not require you to describe an experience in detail.
Do I need a PTSD diagnosis to start trauma therapy?
No. You can start therapy for the effects of trauma without a diagnosis. If you would like a formal diagnosis or are thinking about medication, your family doctor, nurse practitioner or a psychiatrist can assess that, and we are glad to work alongside them.
How long does trauma therapy take?
It depends on your goals and history. Some people work on a specific experience in a few months, while others stay longer for deeper work. We check in regularly and adjust the plan together. Our guide to how long trauma therapy takes goes into more detail.
Can trauma therapy be done online?
Yes. Many people do trauma work well by secure video from a private space at home. You need to be physically in Ontario during your session.
What if I feel worse before I feel better?
It can happen. Talking about hard things can stir up feelings, which is why we build stability first and move at your pace. Tell your clinician how you are doing, and we will adjust.
Is trauma therapy covered by insurance in Ontario?
OHIP does not cover private therapy, but many extended health plans cover Registered Social Workers and Registered Psychotherapists. We provide receipts. See our fees and insurance page for details.
Is what I share confidential?
Yes. Your personal health information is protected under Ontario's Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA) and the standards of our professional colleges. There are limited legal exceptions, such as a risk of serious harm or a child protection concern, which we explain at your first session.
What is the difference between anxiety and trauma?
Anxiety is ongoing worry or fear about what might happen. Trauma responses come from past distressing events and can include flashbacks, avoidance and feeling on edge. They can overlap, and the best treatment depends on what is driving them. We talk this through in your free consult.
How do I check that a therapist is regulated in Ontario?
Search the public registers of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers for Registered Social Workers, or the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario for Registered Psychotherapists. Both titles are legally protected in Ontario.
You do not have to carry this alone.
Book a free 15-minute consult and tell us what is going on. We will talk about how we would work together and whether we are the right fit.
If you are in crisis
- Call or text 9-8-8, the Suicide Crisis Helpline, 24/7 anywhere in Canada.
- Call 911 if you or someone else is in immediate danger.
- ConnexOntario: 1-866-531-2600 for mental health and addictions services.
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text 686868.
The Heart of Healing is not a crisis or emergency service.
(289) 819-3399 · theheartofhealingcs@gmail.com · 1015 Lakeshore Blvd E, Toronto, ON M4M 1B0
Virtual therapy for clients across Ontario, including Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Ottawa, Hamilton, London, Kitchener-Waterloo and Barrie.